Over-Hire Dresser

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is one of the largest non-profit theatre organizations in the nation, presenting Broadway tours and producing theatre, cabaret, musicals, and innovative, immersive experiences. Through these experiences and alongside our robust Education program, we engage hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The DCPA’s workforce includes more than 300 employed team members in non-union and union positions (in partnership with seven unions). In addition, we employ hundreds of artists and contractors annually. We have a strong volunteer program which includes more than 300 volunteers.

Our Mission: “We engage and inspire through the transformative power of live theatre.”

Culture Statement

For more than 40 years, creativity and community have been the foundation of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ success. As a leading cultural organization in the Rocky Mountain West, we are actively participating in a cultural evolution of belonging and anti-racism. Our commitment to reflect the diversity and priorities of our community — in our workplace, audience and programming — has never been more present.

We believe that the theater can transform us — and be transformed by us. We invite you to be part of our Team.

Job purpose

The Dresser is an IATSE union position that is responsible for the care and maintenance of finished costumes as used in the production for Denver Center Theatre Company productions. The Dresser provides hands on assistance with costumes to actors in their dressing rooms and/or backstage while contributing to the effective and efficient running of all productions and events to the highest standard.

Duties and responsibilities

• Fill out an individual run sheet and maintain a clean working copy through the run on the shared folder.
• Look over all costume pieces prior to each performance.
• Ensure presets of costume pieces prior to show are placed in their correct positions.
• Assisting actors with dressing and changes. Dressing all female, male and non-binary actors in the production as assigned by the Wardrobe Supervisor.
• Maintenance of finished costumes for assigned productions from technical rehearsals through closing including laundry and repair
• Perform emergency costume repairs as necessary
• Assist with costume load-in and strike. Including taking down wardrobe and returning materials and costumes to DCPA Wardrobe areas.
• Maintain a clean and safe workspace in all areas of wardrobe and backstage.
• Collaborate professionally with Creative Team, Supervisor, fellow Wardrobe crew members, Stage Management team, Actors and Stage crew.
• Attend rehearsals as needed.

Qualifications

Demonstrated experience in regional or professional theatre, or similar (including educational background)

• Understanding of basic dresser skills such as filling out a run list, setting up pre-sets, quick changes, repairing costume pieces, processing laundry, etc.
• Ability to sew. Experience with craft repairs such as jewelry repair, shoe maintenance, riveting, etc. Experience with home and industrial sewing machines, overlock machines, domestic and industrial irons, washers, dryers, and steamers.
• A problem solver with the ability to maintain a professional attitude and organized workspace in a fast-paced environment and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Work to help create and maintain a positive working atmosphere.
• Ability to execute tasks and collaborate efficiently with team members.

Supervisor Responsibilities

None

Working conditions

This position requires some lifting, stairs, working with shop equipment as stated above, working under tight timelines, problem solving, and flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and some holidays and mornings. Must be available to attend all dress rehearsals and performance dates.

Physical requirements

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to handle or feel objects, use tools or controls. The employee will do the following in the position: stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus in backstage lighting. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Direct Reports

None

Benefits

Benefits for this position are managed by the IATSE union plan.

In order to provide high quality, culturally competent care to our patrons, students, guests and team members, it is of highest importance that our hiring practices reflect our values by offering an environment that celebrates diversity and embraces inclusion. All of our team members – regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, language, abilities/disabilities, socioeconomic status, geographic region, or other defining characteristics – should feel welcome and valued.